Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to support nursing parents returning to work by providing a safe, private, and accessible environment for expressing breast milk during work hours.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees of Hofstra University who wish to express breast milk during the workday in accordance with federal, state and local laws..

Policy

Hofstra University recognizes and supports nursing parents who wish to express breast milk upon their return to work. This policy is established in accordance with federal, state and local laws to outline access to appropriate spaces for nursing mothers to express breast milk during work hours.

Amount and Frequency of Time Needed

For up to three years following the birth of a nursing child, employees who are nursing mothers are permitted to use reasonable paid breaks for the purpose of expressing breast milk. The duration and frequency of nursing breaks may vary depending upon the nursing mother’s personal needs. Each break will be no less than 30 minutes (although employees can elect shorter break periods). Regular paid breaks or mealtimes may be used if more than 30 minutes is needed.

Employees should notify their supervisors in advance, to ensure appropriate coverage during the employee’s absence from the workplace. Supervisors are encouraged to be supportive of an employee’s request to leave the workplace to express milk. If there are issues related to break schedules, supervisors should contact the Office of Human Resources.

Lactation Rooms

Hofstra provides designated lactation rooms throughout the North and South campuses as outlined below. All designated lactation rooms are private and have locking doors, an electrical outlet, a chair, table or flat surface, running water or are in close proximity to running water.

North Campus

• Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine; Room W121 (for Medical School use)

• Sondra and David S. Mack Student Center; Room SD 016D\

South Campus

• Frank G. Zarb School of Business; Guthart Hall; Room 102

• Science and Innovation Center; Room 410A

Alternate Rooms for Lactation

Employees who believe that a designated lactation room is not in close proximity to their workplace can contact the Office of Human Resources to assist with identifying a temporary lactation space.

Storage of Breast Milk

Employees may store breast milk in refrigerators in their work area provided that it is stored in closed containers that are brought home each day at the end of the employee’s workday. The University is not responsible for the safekeeping of breast milk stored anywhere on campus.

Non-Discrimination

Hofstra will not discriminate or retaliate in any way against an employee who chooses to express breast milk in the workplace. An employee who believes they have experienced discrimination or retaliation should consult the Hofstra Non-Discrimination policy.

Related Policies and References

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